Colts promote RB Zurlon Tipton, while releasing WR Griff Whalen

The Indianapolis Colts have released wide receiver Griff Whalen. To make room on the active roster, the team has promoted running back Zurlon Tipton from the practice squad.

Whalen was primarily a returner for the Colts. He was made expendable when the team signed veteran returner Josh Cribbs earlier this week.

Griff Whalen (Getty Images)

As a receiver, Whalen has two receptions, while being targeted three times for 23 yards. The 24-year-old had 379 kickoff return yards and 187 punt return yardage.

Tipton gives the Colts added running back depth after they were linked to free agents LeGarrette Blount and Ray Rice. Blount would eventually sign with the New England Patriots, while Rice is still suspended by the league.

He’s expected to be the third back, while Dan “Boom” Herron will fill the back-up role. Trent Richardson, who is in his first full-year with the Colts, is expected to continue to get the bulk of the carries going forward.

The former Central Michigan back has never played in the NFL. Tomorrow will be the first time that he’s played in a regular season game.